2012 CWEA Finalist: Sarah White

Sarah White, COO & Co-Founder, Fairware

When Fairware got its start back in 2005, the business operated out of Sarah White’s garage with a telephone, a computer and a great idea – to change the world through the simple act of buying. Seven years later, Sarah is Chief Operating Officer at the company, which specializes in creating cool, custom-branded, sustainable swag for nearly 200 clients across North America, including leading brands like Vancity, Nature’s Path, Stonyfield Farms, AVEDA and Patagonia.

Sarah’s path has always been one of creativity, and a vision for building something new – something she’s channeled into her work to this day. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of British Columbia. She also holds a teaching degree from Simon Fraser University and taught in the elementary school system in Vancouver.

Early in her career, Sarah immersed herself in Vancouver’s vibrant public art and design community. Driven by a passion for empowering others, engaging the community and creating connections, Sarah facilitated public input for the design of public park and art projects. She created a process for engaging community members in design workshops, which resulted in the creation of a unique park, Mosaic Creek, and a number of large scale community art installations.

Today, Sarah is a member of Women’s President Organization and the Forum of Women Entrepreneurs, and is active in promoting Fairware’s status as a WEConnect-certified business. Sarah’s day-to-day involves systems, human resources, project management and ensuring Fairware’s culture of humour, creativity and high fives is alive and thriving.

Outside of work, Sarah loves spending time with friends and family. She is an avid backyard vegetable gardener and loves to watch and play sports of any kind. Sarah has been active in community sports for most of her life, both playing and coaching. She lives in Vancouver with her partner and two sons.

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